The University of Nevada Cooperative Extension and the Nevada Department of Agriculture will host the Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) Training on January 30 and 31. The training will teach on-farm practices that could lead to a prestigious GAP certificate.

“What we’re encouraging producers to do basically elevate their level of safe practice so that we can have a safer food supply so there is more consumer confidence,” Nevada Department of Agriculture Public Information Officer Bob Conrad says.

Conrad says agriculture in Nevada is a $5.3 billion industry and has one of the most consistent economic impacts on the Silver State. "Hence, another reason to preach and teach safe handling practices. The more faith in production in the Nevada’s agriculture the better for the state’s economy."

With more and more restaurants and schools looking to buy local products, producers could also use the GAP certification to make themselves more marketable. After the GAP training hosted by the Cooperation Extension, participants will be encouraged to take advantage of their training and apply for their GAP certificate.

The two-day program will be held at the Nevada Department of Agriculture from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The session cost $20, and everyone in the community is invited to attend. For more information, click here